Now that we are a couple of weeks into 2020, it’s time to check in on how your resolutions are holding up. Afterall, with every new year comes new resolutions (often the same resolutions)- lose 10 lbs., live a more active lifestyle, get organized, pay off credit card debt, etc. While all of these resolutions are commendable, what if you made one more resolution this year? What if this year you resolve to make a meaningful change that will set you up for success in your career? Even though January 1st has already come and gone, there’s still time to make that commitment for 2020.

Keep in mind that a change in your career doesn’t necessarily mean that you are thinking about changing careers completely. In fact, there are many other resolutions that you can make that do not involve finding a new job. The following are just a few career resolutions that you can make this year.

Ask for what you want:

How often have you found yourself wanting to make a change but nervous to actually verbalize it to your boss? More flexibility in your schedule, or possibly more responsibility on your team? Maybe you have had your eye on a promotion within your company, or believe that you have earned a raise. Regardless of what it is that you want, make this your year to speak up and have those potentially uncomfortable conversations with your boss. Vocalizing the changes that you would like to see in your career will open the lines of communication and potentially increase your job satisfaction.

Learn something new:

You don’t have to go back to school to learn something new this year. Instead, make the effort to change how much you know about your team, the company you work for, and the industry you are in. Conduct research, seek out a mentor, talk with coworkers, and go beyond your workplace to have conversations with others in your field- knowledge is power and will help you to be a more well-rounded employee. Increasing your knowledge in these areas will help you to succeed as you align yourself with your team’s and company’s goals.   

Expand your position:

Use this year to change your role within your company. If you are unsure of where to begin this process, start by looking for gaps within your team. Is there a team member who is consistently struggling and behind or a task that is constantly left unfinished? Determine how you can help to fill in those gaps and take the initiative to present your ideas to the rest of your team. By expanding your impact on your team by taking on new responsibilities, you will be making a meaningful change to your role that will not only add to your job security, but will make you more marketable should you decide to make an even bigger change to your career this year.

No, these resolutions aren’t huge or particularly career altering; however, committing to one of these areas this year will spark positive changes in your career.